Spain Bans Mass Protests Ahead Of Weekend Elections

Thousands of people have jammed dozens of Spanish cities, including Madrid, protesting the country's skyrocketing unemployment rate; it jumped to more than 21 percent at the beginning of the year, according to AFP. But Spanish law requires a 'day of reflection' before a vote, meaning no political demonstrations may be held. Election officials have ruled the massive demonstrations must end before Sunday's local and regional elections.